University of Michigan–Flint

What you'll study

This programme combines core business knowledge with specialised human resources topics to build the skills needed to manage people and workplace systems. You study foundational subjects in management, accounting, marketing and organisational behaviour alongside HR-specific modules and applied projects.

• Core HR modules: introduction to human resources, recruitment and selection, training and development, performance management, compensation and benefits, and employment law.
• Organisational and behavioural studies: organisational behaviour, leadership, change management and workplace diversity and inclusion.
• HR technology and analytics: HR information systems (HRIS), workforce analytics and using data to support HR decisions.
• Labour and employee relations: collective bargaining, labour law, conflict resolution and grievance procedures.
• Strategic and ethical practice: strategic human resource management, ethics and corporate social responsibility in HR practice.
• Integrative experiences: capstone project, practicum or internship with a local employer to apply classroom learning to real workplace challenges.

The degree typically follows a standard undergraduate credit-hour structure with general education requirements, business core courses and HR major courses. Students can choose electives or minors to tailor the degree to interests such as business analytics, psychology or public administration.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent. Typical expectations include completion of college-preparatory subjects (for example English and mathematics) and a competitive academic record reflective of the university's admissions standards. Mature students and applicants with prior college credit or relevant work experience are considered through the university's transfer and non-traditional admissions pathways.

Useful preparation includes coursework in English, mathematics and social sciences. Transfer students can often bring community college credits or an associate degree into the programme; applicants should consult admissions advisers for evaluation of prior coursework. International applicants must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements and provide certified academic transcripts.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of HR and people-focused roles across sectors. Entry-level positions commonly include HR assistant, recruiter, benefits coordinator, training specialist and HR administrator. With experience, graduates move into roles such as HR generalist, HRIS analyst, compensation and benefits analyst, talent development consultant or labour relations specialist.

Other career paths include organisational development, diversity and inclusion management, employee relations and specialist consulting. Many graduates pursue professional certifications (for example from SHRM or HRCI) or postgraduate study in human resources, business administration or public administration to advance into managerial and strategic roles.

Why study at University of Michigan–Flint

• Applied learning: the programme emphasises practicum and internship placements with employers in Flint, the greater Detroit region and beyond, enabling students to build work experience while studying.
• Accredited business school: the School of Management offers an AACSB-aligned business curriculum and faculty with practitioner experience in human resources and organisational management.
• Small classes and local connections: smaller class sizes allow close faculty interaction and networking opportunities with regional employers and community organisations.
• Student support and professional development: dedicated career services, a student SHRM chapter and workshops on résumé building, interviewing and certification preparation help students transition into the workforce.
• Flexible pathways: options for transfer credit, minors and electives allow students to customise their degree for specific industries or further study.